Riley Hsia, Washington Foster’s MBA Class of 2027
Riley Hsia, Washington Foster’s MBA Class of 2027Age: 29
Hometown: Bellevue, WA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Santa Clara University – Economics & Spanish Studies
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Managing/Principal Recruitment Consultant @ Harnham, Life Science Analytics Staffing – 7 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
After seven years at my prior company, I knew I wanted to grow into a more well-rounded business leader and open up new career paths. I also felt like I’d hit a rare window in life where it made sense to pause, invest in myself, and take on the MBA challenge.
Why did you choose Washington Foster?
Foster stood out to me as a top-tier MBA program, with a strong alumni network and the chance for my partner and me to move closer to family. But what really sealed it was Welcome Weekend — connecting with my future classmates made me realize these were the people I wanted to be “in the trenches” with for the next two years.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I’m basically the human version of an icebreaker. I enjoy bringing people together quickly and authentically — something that helps a new cohort settle in and feel connected right away.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I proposed to my partner in Bali right before programming started. After months of nerves, it was the perfect way to kick things off with “good vibes only.”
Post-MBA career interests:
Healthcare/Biopharma – Program or Product Management, Leadership Development Programs
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Really dial in your why. Being able to clearly explain your career goals and why a program fits you (clear examples showing your research) is key.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Talk to more students and alumni before applying. Doing this afterwards gave me a much better feel for programs and would’ve made my applications stronger.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
GMAT Focus prep. Nothing like cranking through data sufficiency while it’s 75 and sunny in San Diego. What helped was shifting my mindset — instead of seeing it as punishment, I treated it as a down payment on my future.
What is your initial impression of the Foster students/culture/community?
Incredible. With just over 100 students, our class already feels close-knit. Looking at second years and alumni, it’s clear the Foster community is deeply supportive and well connected — both in Seattle and beyond.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
Still exploring. On the quarter system, things move quickly, so I’m keeping an open mind to see what resonates most.
What is one thing you have learned about Foster that has surprised you?
The diversity of perspectives. Every group project highlights just how much we all bring to the table, and it makes the learning richer than I expected.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
The hands-on, applied learning. Foster is great at blending classroom lessons with real-world practice, often in competitive but collaborative settings. That’s exactly the kind of growth environment I was hoping to find.
